President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, to investigate allegations of a “pay-to-mine” extortion network in the Amansie Central District following a JoyNews documentary.

The documentary exposes how illegal miners allegedly pay fixed fees, including GH₵6,000 per year for banned changfan machines, in exchange for uninterrupted operations.

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The transactions are reportedly formalised through stickers, receipts, and bank deposits.

At the centre of the exposé is the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Amansie Central, Emmanuel Obeng-Agyemang, whose recorded statements appear to confirm his involvement in authorising these illegal activities.

The revelations have prompted widespread calls for his dismissal and possible prosecution.

Commenting on the matter, Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, assured that action would be taken against any individuals found culpable of wrongdoing.

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“President Mahama has directed Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon Ahmed Ibrahim, to conduct immediate investigations into the allegations contained in the Joy News report with a view to taking swift action against anyone found culpable,” Kwakye Ofosu shared on X on February 10, 2026.

“The Minister earlier today received a petition from Joy News on the matter and pledged to look into it,” he added.

RE- JoyNews report on Amansie Central mining equipment tax.

President Mahama has directed Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon Ahmed Ibrahim, to conduct immediate investigations into the allegations contained in the Joy News report with a view… pic.twitter.com/AcGGTeoBk5

— Felix Kwakye Ofosu (@FelixKwakyeOfo1) February 10, 2026